So what is the proper protocol for me to grill him for secrets? :) We're not close friends, only see each other a couple of times a year, but I was surprised to see he was already at this level at a relatively young age.

Quoting: curiousgoods

IF your friend did become a 33rd degree mason you can be sure 100% he would not be telling you about it.

Quoting: Anonymous Coward 44834193

Well, he's got pictures of it posted all over his Facebook page so apparently it's not too secret. He took a special trip to DC for it and was one of I'm not sure how many but based on the pictures looked to be at least a few dozen.